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by Leah Dyer | 11 February 2025 | Blog, Industry News
In today’s fast-paced job market, the demand for skilled workers is skyrocketing. Companies are looking for individuals who not only have the potential to excel but also possess practical, hands-on experience. Apprenticeships help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, providing invaluable skills that set employees up for success in their careers. Here’s why apprenticeships are so valuable for both employers and employees.
At Kids Inc Nurseries, we’re proud to be at the forefront of apprenticeship opportunities. In 2023, we won the prestigious Nursery Management Today (NMT) Apprenticeship Scheme of the Year Award and we’ve also been featured in the Department of Education’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers for the last two years. What sets us apart is our personalised approach to training and development.
Our training team visits apprentices twice a month, in addition to assessor visits from our apprenticeship partner, Realise. The team consists of three highly experienced members, all former nursery managers, who provide coaching based on real-world experience. We also offer monthly face-to-face workshops tailored to each learner’s needs, helping them develop new skills and apply their knowledge practically.
Additionally, we provide ten essential Toolkit Training sessions covering topics such as child protection, self-regulation, observation and assessment, the Early Years Foundation Stage and inclusion. These sessions form the foundation for our apprentices’ off-the-job training, ensuring a well-rounded education in their field.
We partner with Realise Training, a leading apprenticeship provider that supports over 11,500 learners annually with a network of more than 500 skilled trainers. Their tailored approach ensures that learning is of the highest quality, adapting based on feedback to meet the specific needs of our learners. Their strong communication and dedicated in-house experts allow us to maintain a smooth apprenticeship process. In 2024, they were awarded Supplier of the Year in the Training and Learning category at the Nursery Management Today (NMT) Awards.
Apprenticeships provide a unique combination of hands-on learning, financial independence and career growth. Here are just a few key advantages:
Apprentices can directly apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations, building confidence and proficiency in their chosen field.
Unlike traditional education that requires tuition fees, apprenticeships allow individuals to earn a salary while they learn, reducing financial burden.
Many apprentices secure permanent positions within their training company, giving them a head start in their careers.
Apprentices gain certifications that validate their skills and knowledge, enhancing their career prospects.
Apprentices work closely with experienced professionals who provide guidance, feedback and support, while also building industry connections.
We regularly gather feedback via anonymous surveys, testimonials and one-on-one meetings. Our apprentices feel valued and supported throughout their journey and would recommend an apprenticeship at Kids Inc Nurseries. They appreciate the hands-on experience, allowing them to ask questions in the moment and learn in a practical way.
“I did feel a bit up and down to begin with, adapting to doing a course whilst working. However, I have felt that I have had the support I need from my Training Manager and Nursery Manager.”
“The apprenticeship with Kids Inc will allow me to potentially become a Senior Nursery Practitioner in the future and it has also boosted my confidence with childcare knowledge.”
“I have learnt lots about child development, which has helped me to improve the quality of my practice and positively impacts the babies and children I care for.”
Apprenticeships are an incredibly valuable tool for both employers and employees. For employers, they provide a cost-effective way to develop a skilled and loyal workforce. For employees, they offer an opportunity to gain practical experience, earn a living and unlock long-term career advancement. At Kids Inc Nurseries, we’re proud to offer apprenticeship opportunities that benefit our employees and enrich the quality of care and education we provide to children.
If you’re interested in an apprenticeship with Kids Inc Nurseries, contact our training team at training@kidsincnurseries.co.uk. We’d love for you to attend one of our free apprenticeship workshops, where you can gain first-hand insight into what we offer.
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